Germans’ historic defeat at hands of North Macedonia

Germany suffered a humiliating 2-1 home defeat by North Macedonia as the four-times world champions lost only their third World Cup qualifying match and the first one in 20 years.

The Germans went into the match unbeaten in 35 World Cup qualifiers, since the 5-1 thrashing by England in September 2001.

Joachim Löw’s side fell behind in first-half stoppage time when his defenders lost track of Goran Pandev, the veteran Genoa forward. Ilkay Gündogan drew Germany level in the 63rd minute after Leroy Sané had been felled by Ezgjan Alioski, the Leeds United wing back.

Chelsea’s Timo Werner missed Germany’s best chance, scuffing wide when one on one with the goalkeeper. As Germany pushed for a winner, North Macedonia made the breakthrough. Arijan Ademi passed